President won over his former army commander, General Sarath Fonseka,  on island's first nationwide election since defeating LTTE.

He sought a new mandate to endorse his 2nd phase of plans to develop Sri Lanka by exploiting its geographically strategic position astride air and sea lanes, rebuilding infrastructure and encouraging foreign investment and local productivity.

Development of local industry, business and agriculture are what Rajapaksa says will be the key to healing Sri Lanka's divisions, by building a national identity and reconnecting the formerly Tiger-held areas to the rest of the country.
Top minister of SLFP government declared that dissolving of the Parliament will follow when the president returns from Russia and election will take place before end of April.

President returned to the Island today (9th) after a successful three-day state visit to Russia.

President’s entourage included First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa, Ministers Susil Premajayantha, Prof G.L. Peiris, Anura Priyadarshana, Yapa, Rohitha Bogollagama, Mahindananda Aluthgamage, Parliamentarian Wimal Weerawansa and Secretary to the President Lalith Weerathunga.